Morning sickness, that notorious companion at the start of pregnancy, usually kicks off between the sixth and eighth week, manifesting with bouts of nausea and sporadic vomiting. Although it is commonly referred to as “morning sickness”, it can hit at any time. Around half to two-thirds of all pregnant women experience morning sickness. Understanding when it typically begins and learning effective ways to handle it can help make this challenging phase more manageable.
Morning sickness could be a bit of a nuisance in the early weeks of pregnancy, but with the right techniques, you can deal with it proficiently. Remember, while it’s a demanding stage of the journey, it’s a milestone on the path to the amazing experience of creating a new life.
What is morning sickness?
Morning sickness is a common symptom of early pregnancy marked by nausea and vomiting. For most women, it starts around the sixth week of pregnancy and goes away by weeks 12 to 14. However, 1 in 5 women experience morning sickness into their second trimester and a few unlucky one's cope with nausea and vomiting for the entire duration of their pregnancy. Morning sickness is usually harmless to both the woman and the unborn child. However, severe morning sickness (known as hyperemesis gravidarum) that includes uncontrolled nausea and vomiting, weight loss, and dehydration needs immediate medical attention.Symptoms of morning sickness
Morning sickness primarily includes:- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Food aversion or sudden dislike towards certain foods
- Heightened sensitivity to odours
- Fatigued
- Heartburn or reflux
- Feeling dizzy
Causes of morning sickness
The exact cause of morning sickness is unclear, but it is believed to be a combination of several factors, including:- Hormonal changes, particularly the increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and oestrogen.
- Low blood sugar levels
- Changes in metabolism
- Blood pressure fluctuations
- Alterations in the immune system
- Physical and chemical changes that pregnancy give rise to
When does morning sickness start?
Morning sickness generally starts around the sixth week of pregnancy. However, it can change for each person, with some experiencing symptoms as early as the fourth week or as late as the eighth week. It usually improves by the end of the first trimester, around 12 to 14 weeks (about 3 months) of pregnancy.When does morning sickness peak?
Morning sickness often peaks during weeks 8 to 12 of pregnancy, with many women suffering their most severe symptoms around this period. Nausea and vomiting can start as early as six weeks and often end by 14 to 16 weeks (about 3 and a half months). For some women, symptoms may persist beyond the first trimester, occasionally spanning the whole pregnancy. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, and individual susceptibility can all affect the severity and length of morning sickness. If your symptoms are severe or persistent, you should see a doctor to discuss treatment options.How long does morning sickness last?
Morning sickness normally lasts from 6 weeks (about 1 and a half months) and 14 to 16 weeks (about 3 and a half months) of pregnancy. While most women feel better by the end of the first trimester, others may continue to suffer symptoms throughout the second trimester or even throughout the pregnancy.Managing morning sickness
Effective strategies for managing morning sickness:- Eat small and frequent meals: Eat little meals throughout the day instead of three large ones. This contributes to steady blood sugar levels and can alleviate nausea.
- Choose bland foods: Choose bland, easy-to-digest items such as crackers, bread, rice, or bananas to help settle your stomach.
- Stay hydrated: Consume plenty of water to keep hydrated. Drink water, ginger tea, or electrolyte drinks, particularly if you're
- Ginger remedies: Ginger can help reduce nausea. Consider ginger tea, ginger ale, or ginger candy.
- Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid foods, scents, or situations that make you nauseated. This may need some trial and error.
- Rest & relaxation: To assist stress management, get plenty of rest and try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
- Acupressure: Some women get comfort from acupressure. Wearing acupressure bracelets may help reduce nausea, although there is no scientific evidence to support this
- Vitamin B6 supplements: Consult a doctor about taking vitamin B6 pills, which can help alleviate morning sickness symptoms.
- Medication options: If your symptoms are severe, your healthcare practitioner may prescribe safe anti-nausea drugs to help you manage your condition.
- Avoid lying flat: Try not to lie down after eating. Sitting up or lifting your head might help reduce nausea.
Benefits of telehealth in pregnancy and for morning sickness
Telehealth has considerable benefits for pregnant women and those suffering from morning sickness. It offers easy access to healthcare practitioners, allowing pregnant mums to consult specialists without the need for in-person appointments. This is especially useful for discussing symptoms, getting medicines, and tracking health from home. Telehealth services can provide tailored information and assistance for treating morning sickness, including medication alternatives and lifestyle adjustments. Furthermore, it enables fast follow-ups and changes to care plans while maintaining safety and comfort. Overall, telehealth improves accessibility, decreases travel stress, and encourages continuous contact throughout the pregnancy journey.Morning sickness could be a bit of a nuisance in the early weeks of pregnancy, but with the right techniques, you can deal with it proficiently. Remember, while it’s a demanding stage of the journey, it’s a milestone on the path to the amazing experience of creating a new life.
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Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
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